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Things are looking up for Gaylord since the ice storm in late March and we can’t wait to see you this spring and summer! Please check this blog regularly for updates to trails, campgrounds and public access sites.

If you’re interested in helping our community during this recovery process, the Otsego Community Foundation is accepting donations here. If you would like to volunteer your time to restore parks and trails with the Michigan DNR, click here.

April 29, 2025

The City of Gaylord’s Department of Public Works has been hard at work over the past month clearing debris from the recent ice storm. Aspen Park remains closed for now, but it’s currently 80–90% cleared. Once the remaining hanging trees are safely removed, the park will reopen.

The Gaylord Cycling Club is currently seeking volunteers to help clear the singletrack trails within Aspen Park. If you’re able to lend a hand, your help would be appreciated!

At Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve, crews continue their efforts with the goal of opening a section of the park in the next few weeks.

Please note that all state-maintained trails, including the North Central State Trail, remain closed for the time being. For the latest updates and an overview of affected areas, visit the Michigan DNR’s Storm Recovery page and check out their interactive trail map.

Stay tuned — we’ll share more updates as more trails reopen.

April 21, 2025

The City of Gaylord continues working hard to bring Aspen Park back to its beautiful, walkable self. Over at the Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve, their team has been putting in long hours to clear trails and reopen safely. Every day brings more progress! For the latest updates on state trails, campgrounds and public access sites, check out the Michigan DNR’s interactive map and their Storm Recovery page.

April 14, 2025

We’re happy to report that most of our community’s power has been restored, and Gaylord is back in action! The City of Gaylord has begun cleaning up Aspen Park, though it remains closed for now. The DNR has also started clearing parks and boat launches, working hard to get them ready for visitors. Stay tuned for more updates!

April 7, 2025

More and more of our community is regaining power and most roads are now accessible. Our downtown businesses are open for business, as are most on the west side of town. Stores and restaurants are operational, warm and welcoming!

The DNR recently announced that all state-maintained trails and campgrounds are closed until further notice. These areas may be inaccessible or unsafe due to downed trees. The DNR has been doing an outstanding job getting started on debris removal and will continue their efforts until our pathways and campgrounds are restored.

April 3, 2025

Main roads are mostly clear at this time, but you may find detours where linework is taking place. Our lodging members are having power restored quickly, as are many restaurants and shops. Multiple gas stations are also open throughout town. If you have travel plans in the next few weeks and are not staying on a main roadway, please call ahead to ensure the road is accessible and that power has been restored.

While our first priority is restoring power and resources to the residents of our vibrant community, we also realize our trails, parks and preserves are in need of care. It will take time to clear fallen trees and debris from our natural areas and we will do our best to keep you updated of those efforts as we are made aware.

March 31, 2025

As you may know, Gaylord and much of northern Michigan was hit by an ice storm that started on March 29th. Most of our community has been without power since that time. If you plan to travel to the area in the next few weeks, please call ahead first to ensure you will have power and access to your lodging. 

There are many trees and powerlines down, but the amazing linemen and first responders are working tirelessly to restore everything. We appreciate their efforts more than words can say!

Please bear with us as we work on clearing our roads and trails; the cleanup may take some time. We’re optimistic that our community will come together, just like before, to reclaim Gaylord as the outdoor wonderland we all love.

Thanks for your patience and support! Stay tuned for updates on our progress—we can’t wait to welcome you back!